Thousands follow American quest via the Internet
Darrell Greer
Northern News Services
Rankin Inlet (Apr 18/01) - Students and teachers across the Kivalliq had the chance to meet two American adventurers this month.
Chris Martz and Otto Bakemeier of Indianapolis, Illinois, are trying to reach the North Pole by snowmobile.
Having planned the trip for the past seven years, they finally got under way in 2000, getting to Churchill, Man. from Indianapolis.
They began the second part of their voyage on March 30, 2001.
What's even more fascinating about the duo's quest is the 20,000 students following their progress daily via the Internet.
Martz says their Web site (www.arctictrek2000.com) has been active for the past three years.
"The kids can log on to the Web site and learn about where we are every day," says Martz.
"They'll read about the weather, GPS co-ordinates, and, if we're in a hamlet, we'll offer information about that community with kids in the States and throughout Canada.
"We actually have a lot of Canadian kids participating, from British Columbia all the way to Newfoundland."
With so much attention on them, the duo's trek to the North Pole has become a special topic in North American schools.
The trio made stops in Arviat, Rankin Inlet and Baker Lake while in the Kivalliq.
"When we visit a school, we'll do whatever the students and staff want us to.
"In some schools they'll take us from classroom to classroom, and we'll conduct a brief chat with the kids on who we are, what we're doing and who supports us.
"We also offer a question and answer period and we'll bring our dog Bear, who the kids really take to.
"In other schools, we'll go into the gym, hold a general assembly and address the whole school at once."
The two travel with a 12-foot qamatiq each, which carry their fuel and other supplies, including hi-tech communication equipment and information materials they distribute at schools.
Despite the loss of travel time, Martz says the team will go out of its way to reach most hamlets.
He says the school program is just as important as reaching the Pole and time is on their side.
"It may not be this year, but, if it doesn't happen this year, we'll get it done next year for sure."
